The featured speaker at the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce luncheon today (3.27.19) gave a rousing and energetic presentation to business owners relating to a formula for business success.
Hunter C. Brown, vice president of operations for Lennys Grill and Subs, addressed a full house at the Stonebridge Golf Club.
Mr. Brown has served in his current position since January 2017. Previously he was director of operations for one of the largest Domino’s Pizza franchisees in the country. He spent 12 years with McAlister’s Deli as one of the original franchise team members, opening dozens of new locations across Tennessee and Mississippi.
He complimented Chamber members for starting the luncheon with prayer. He said Lakeland is so successful, it is buzzing. “We hear you in Desoto County.”
Mr. Brown then launched into his presentation noting he starts every single speech with one of his favorite topics – me.
His goals for the talk, he said, would be two-fold: “I want to quit talking before you quit listening. If just one person has a different outlook to improve their business, I was successful.”
Mr. Brown talked about creating a value equation for a business and the importance of building a customer-centric business. There are three components of a value equation: analyze, product service and image.
He noted there is a difference between customer-focused business and customer-centric. A customer-focused business gives consistently great service and treats customers right. With customer-centric, he said, customers love you, they trust you.
The formula for success involves the hard work, knowledge and attitude. “But there’s nothing that matters more than bringing a great attitude.”
Sponsor of the luncheon was Pop-A- Lock.
Wil Ashworth, Chamber president, announced the next Chamber luncheon is April 24th and the Chamber Sporting Clays Tournament is from noon to 4 p.m. April 12. The “Ready. Set. Grow! 5K is at 6 p.m. the same date at Delta Blues Winery.
He reminded attendees that the St. Jude Dream Home, under construction in Lakeland, will be open for viewing May 18 – June 16th on Saturdays and Sundays.
And Mr. Ashworth said the LAMP concerts at IH Park will be starting soon.
… Photos by Jim Willis, Lakeland Currents
